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Funding Partnership Opportunities for French Projects

Sept. 14, 2016

There are 70,000 Francophones and 300,000 Francophiles across British Columbia. Local governments can access financial assistance from the British Columbia Government Francophone Affairs Program (FAP) to support the delivery of programs and services to its Francophones and Francophiles.

The Francophone Affairs Program delivers the Canada-British Columbia Official Languages Agreement on French-Language Services. Participation in this cooperation agreement with the federal government demonstrates the Province’s commitment to the unity of the country by stengthening bonds between French-speaking and English-speaking citizens. Funding through the agreement is available to local governments for projects either with a French component or entirely in French. Projects must support service development, planning and delivery in one or more of the five priority areas: Health and Social Services, Economic Development, Arts and Culture, Justice and Communications.

To be eligible, local government must contribute a match in direct funds or in-kind, or a combination of both, worth at least 50% of the project’s French component. Visit the FAP Guidelines page to review project’s eligibility and criteria. There is no application deadline as funds are distributed on a first-come-first-served basis.

FAP has already successfully partnered with many municipalities providing much needed funds.

Some examples are:

City of Nelson – Regional Visitor Gateway / Bilingual Signage

City of Prince George – 2015 Canada Games / Civic Plaza Enhancement Project

Township of Esquimalt – Centennial Walkway / Historical Pavers Bricks

City of Vancouver – Public Library / Purchase of French Material

District of Tofino – Recreation Program / Early Childhood French Activities

City of Coquitlam – Arts and Culture / Art in Public Places

Many projects start with a conversation with local francophone representatives and grow to benefit the entire community. FAP welcomes the opportunity to talk about your ideas and build partnerships.

Contact FAP at (250) 387-2028 or by email for more details on the funding opportunity or to discuss your project.